One of the questions I’m asked most by new students is “What do I need to wear?” The short answer for your first class is: nothing special. But as you settle into training, and especially once you start to feel part of the club, clothing becomes part of the experience. This guide covers everything we offer, from the club T-shirt you’ll train in to the lifestyle pieces people wear away from the kwoon, so you can choose what you actually need.
Your first class: keep it simple
You don’t need a uniform or any equipment to try Wing Chun with us. Tracksuit bottoms and a T-shirt or hoodie are ideal. Wear something you can move in freely, particularly around the shoulders and hips, because Wing Chun uses a low, relaxed stance and a lot of arm work at close range. Leave watches and jewellery at home or in your bag.
If you haven’t booked yet, you can book your free trial class here, or find out more on our Wing Chun classes in Halesowen page.
Club wear: what members train in
Once you join, the club T-shirt becomes your training uniform. Wearing the same shirt as everyone else is a small thing, but it matters. It shows you belong to the school, and it keeps the focus on training rather than on who’s wearing what.
T-shirts
Most new members start with the Official Wing Chun Halesowen Starter T-shirt. The other options, including a children’s version, are covered in our club T-shirt guide and, for parents, kids’ Wing Chun T-shirts.
Staying warm
Our classes run on weekday evenings, so in autumn and winter you’ll want something warm for the journey in and the first few minutes of class. The range includes a base layer, long-sleeve options, a cuffed beanie and several hoodies, including the unisex heavy blend zip hoodie. I’ve covered layering in dressing for winter training and compared the hoodies in our hoodie guide.
For women
There are pieces cut specifically for women, including a training T-shirt, a hoodie and a lightweight quarter-zip. See ladies’ Wing Chun apparel for the details.
Lifestyle apparel: Wing Chun beyond the kwoon
Alongside the club kit, we have a lifestyle range for students, family and friends who want to wear something connected to the art outside training. These designs carry the T&T Studio mark and draw on traditional Chinese art and Wing Chun principles.
- Celestial Dragon Heavyweight Graphic Tee (the story behind it).
- Tiger & Crane Duality Tee (what it means).
- Wing Chun Biomechanical Blueprint Tee (centreline theory explained).
- Ink Wash Pagoda & Plum Blossom Hoodie.
- Wing Chun Halesowen Snake and Crane Tee for children.
You’ll find the full range in our online shop. You can also browse our TrackAndTrainStudio shop on Etsy; here’s how the two differ.
Ordering in good time
Much of our clothing is made to order and we keep only a small amount of stock, so allow extra time before birthdays or Christmas. Sizing notes vary by item, and our sizing and care guide covers fit and washing.
What to leave at home on training nights
Because Wing Chun is practised at close range with a partner, a few everyday items are best left in the bag or the car:
- Watches, rings, bracelets and earrings.
- Anything with hard buckles, studs or metal zips across the front.
- Drawcords that dangle and can catch fingers.
- Very loose sleeves that snag during hand drills.
None of this is about looking smart; it’s about keeping you and your training partner safe.
What should you actually buy?
- Thinking about trying a class? Nothing yet. Come in comfortable clothes.
- Just joined? A club T-shirt, and a hoodie if you’re starting in the colder months.
- Training through the winter? Add a base layer or long-sleeve tee.
- Buying for someone else? See my present ideas for martial artists.
Come and train with us
The best kit in the world won’t teach you Wing Chun. That happens on the mats. If you’re in or around Halesowen and would like to see what training is like, book your free trial class. Just bring yourself and some comfortable clothes.
Sifu Alan Bagley, Wing Chun Halesowen